LI Network
Published on: November 24, 2023 at 01:10 IST
The Allahabad High Court’s Lucknow Bench refused bail to Uttar Pradesh MLA Abbas Ansari, son of the prominent politician Mukhtar Ansari, in an arms license case.
Justice Subhash Vidyarthi presided over the bench, citing substantial quantities of arms and ammunition discovered at Ansari’s New Delhi residence.
The court expressed concern about the potential influence of the accused on witnesses and the likelihood of tampering with evidence, given Ansari’s significant sway over jail authorities.
The court specifically noted unauthorized visits by Ansari’s wife, who carried a mobile phone inside the jail without proper checks.
The case involves an FIR filed in October 2019, accusing Ansari of acquiring multiple firearms using the mentioned license.
Allegedly posing as a notable shooter, he transferred the license from Lucknow to Delhi without informing the relevant police station, continuing to use licenses issued in two different states under distinct IDs.
The FIR outlined that after his Lucknow license became invalid in October 2015, Ansari obtained a license in New Delhi in June 2017, purchasing seven firearms.
Further allegations included importing a pistol and rifle in violation of NRAI permits, importing prohibited bore barrels without proper permits, and possessing cartridges, some of which were not permitted for use by a shooter.
Ansari faces charges under Sections 420, 467, 468, 471 of the IPC and Section 30 of the Arms Act.
Ansari sought bail, arguing that, as a renowned shooter, he was entitled to hold ten firearms, and his possession of seven was within the legal limit. He contended that the alleged offense occurred in New Delhi, outside the jurisdiction of UP Police.
However, the court, considering the gravity of the allegations, Ansari’s criminal history, and the potential for evidence tampering, refused to grant bail.
The court emphasized the unacceptability of such behavior from someone holding the status of a renowned shooter and a Member of the Legislative Assembly.
Case Title: Abbas Ansari vs. State Of U.P. Thru. Prin. Secy. Home (2023)